City 2 West Ham 1.

Three more points sees us move back upto fourth in the table and left fans with plenty of positives following yesterdays 2-1 win over West Ham.
In truth, the scoreline somewhat flattered West Ham a little - although credit must be due for the way in which they approached the game which was a contrast to most away teams who visit. However, it was this positive approach from the Hammers which left the play very open and allowed us the opportunity to turn in probably the most impressive attacking performance of the season and on another day could have seen us walk away with a 4-0 win.
Particularly impressive for me was the way we played around the box, adopting a patient and measured approach, allowing the midfield to get up and support both Cole and Vassell.
Out of the midfield, Musampa turned in what was surely his best game for the club - although he should easily have had a hat-trick. Barton again continued his impressive start to the season and Ireland and the returning Reyna combined well.
Cole and Vassell again linked well in attack (pushing Robbie Fowler ever closer to retirement) and they combined for the opening goal, with Vassell backheeling for Cole to hit a superb shot past Carroll, re-adjusting his body well to the former-Red no chance.
It was Cole who added the second, capping his 34th birthday as he struck home from close-range following some committed City tackling on the edge of the box.
Despite this dominance, we somehow let West Ham have a lifeline after Stephen Jordan decided to take an afternoon nap and allowed the lively Bobby Zamora to slot home, but in truth any comeback was more hopeful than threatening.
Again, Sylvain Distin was superb at centre-half (how does Boumsong get in the France side whilst Distin is nowhere near the squad - maybe his zodiac sign is not in line with Raymond Domenech's thinking?) and his presence is even more important now it appears Richard Dunne may be spending a little longer on the sidelines as young Nedum Onouha does appear prone to the odd mistake, which is to be expected for someone of his age and limited experience.
As for West Ham, they look like they are willing to attack and this will pick them points up along the way (especially at home) which should ensure they survive comfortably. Personnel wise, Zamora to me looked more threatening than either Harewood or Sheringham in attack. Bennayoun impressed in midfield but had little support from either of the disappointing Reo-Coker or Mullins, whilst it remains amazing that they spent £4.5 million on Repka, who was hauled off at half-time to be replaced by the equally ineffectual Christian Dailly. Maybe Danny Mills isn't really so bad!
Another three points, another impressive performance. Although Stuart Pearce was trying to play it cool with his post-game comments there is a definite air of confidence around the team at the moment.
Next stop Arsenal then as we attempt to bury our Highbury hoodoo. Arsenal in 'crisis', our final game at Highbury. You never know...